2024 BMW M5 to get epic plug-in hybrid power, says insider

The 2024 BMW M5 is destined to get a hefty power increase when the plug-in hybrid version arrives, according to a well-placed company insider.

A member of the BimmerPost internet forum known only by their pseudonym ‘ynguldyn’ – who has a reputation for disclosing confidential BMW product plans – claimed the next-generation M5 could get more than 500kW.

The new M5 is expected to borrow its engine and transmission from the BMW XM super SUV, which uses a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 coupled with a high-performance electric motor to send 550kW and 1000Nm (in flagship Label Red trim) to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission manufactured by German company ZF.

While the informant says the new BMW M5 will be “tuned to 700hp” – or 522kW – it suggests the vehicle may produce slightly less power than the XM, possibly to ensure the lighter M5 isn’t quicker than its range-topping sibling.

With the current BMW M5 Competition putting out 460kW from its twin-turbo V8, if the report is true, it represents a power increase of more than 13 per cent for the new model.

As with the BMW XM, the M5 may provide an electric driving range of more than 80 kilometres – offering a silent daily commute for owners, while the V8 is kept in reserve for when the batteries are depleted or additional performance is called on.

MORE: 2024 BMW M5 plug-in hybrid V8 prototype spied

Prototypes of the new BMW M5 sedan have already been spotted testing in Europe, suggesting the model could make its debut as soon as 2023 – with a wagon variant reportedly slated to follow to fight rivals from Mercedes-AMG and Audi’s RS brand.

A report from August 2021 suggests the next-generation M5 may be the last to receive a V8, with BMW expected to transition its entire model line-up to electric power in time – however, BMW is continuing to pursue the development of hydrogen as an alternative carbon-neutral fuel source.

The new 2023 BMW 5 Series line-up is due to be revealed in early next year, with the M5 likely to follow in early 2024, ahead of a scheduled production start date of July 2024.